Arsenal join race for Pandev
442 Staff - Wednesday 10 June 2009, 14:52
With Arsene Wenger seemingly closing in on Belgian defender Thomas Vermaelen, Lazio striker Goran Pandev appears to be next on Arsenal's wishlist.
Linked with Tottenham, Chelsea, Liverpool, Bayern Munich, Fiorentina and Juventus, Arsenal are the latest outfit to express an interest in Pandev, who has expressed his desire for a new challenge after five years in Rome.
"My cycle with Lazio is over," Pandev told Sky Italia. "I want to find other motivations and go and play for another team. I have spoken to [club president Claudio] Lotito and I explained to him the situation."
With Pandev having scored 15 goals in 37 games last season and helping the team to the Coppa Italia, Lazio will demand around £17 million for the player.
However his agent has suggested a lower fee may be enough. Leonardo Corsi has suggested offers of around £13.5 million could be secure Pandev due to the friendly relationship between club and player.
Corsi commented, "They retain a very good relationship and mutual respect, as has always been the case. For our part, the decision is not based on economic reasons.
"He wants a change and to test himself in a fresh environment after growing comfortable in his many years at this one particular club."
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